Top 15 Cyber Security certifications for 2025

Rapid technological advancements and ongoing economic uncertainty have deepened the IT skills gap today, urging companies to seek certified cybersecurity professionals. The latest data on CyberSeek (March 2025) showed a total of 457,398 unfilled cybersecurity jobs in the U.S., proving the talent gap persists.

As more workers opt for job stability over career changes in 2025 (a trend known as the “Big Stay”), IT professionals are proactively upskilling to secure their positions and stay competitive. Employers are responding to this shift, increasingly viewing certifications and employee training as more affordable, strategic alternatives to external hiring. According to Fortinet’s 2024 Cybersecurity Skills Gap Global Research report, 91% of business leaders say they prefer to hire candidates with certifications, with many companies even willing to pay for their employees to obtain a cybersecurity certification.

 

For professionals, investing in cybersecurity certifications in 2025 not only protects against layoffs and skills obsolescence but helps provide the expertise that organizations urgently need. ISC2 2024 Global Cybersecurity Workforce Study revealed 86% of professionals who earned a cybersecurity certification before starting their first cybersecurity job found it valuable for their career. Another 65% say certifications are the best way to prove knowledge and understanding.

Below, you’ll find 15 of the most trusted cyber security certifications for professionals looking to advance their careers in 2025, including vendor-neutral and vendor-specific certifications that are listed as job requirements across management and technical tracks.

Selecting the right certification depends on your career stage, interests, and goals. Many job postings that might objectively only need relevant work experience and security knowledge often still require cyber security certifications due to company policy or HR filters​.

Many cybersecurity professionals today feel pressured to accumulate certifications, yet this can become a double-edged sword as credentials alone won’t guarantee a job, and chasing too many too early can backfire if it comes at the expense of building real skills. Here are a few pointers to guide your decision:

If you’re new to the cybersecurity field, start with an entry-level credential. Beginner cyber security certifications like CompTIA Security+ or ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) can build your foundation and confidence, making it easier to tackle more advanced certs down the line. Seasoned professionals should consider advanced certs like CISSP or CISM that require 5+ years of experience.

Align the certification with your desired role. Want to be a penetration tester? CEH or PenTest+ might be ideal. Aspiring security managers should eye management-focused certs like CISM or CISSP. Cloud security enthusiasts could pursue CCSP or vendor-specific cloud certs.

Some certifications like CISSP require several years of related professional work experience​, while others have no formal requirements. You should also weigh the exam difficulty and preparation needed to pass the certification exam.

Certification costs range from a few hundred dollars for exam fees up to a few thousand if training is needed. Factor in whether the certification training can be done online since many cybersecurity certifications now offer online self-paced learning.

Research how valued the cert is in job postings. The top cyber security certifications typically have wide industry recognition and can command higher salaries or better job prospects.

A reality today is that while there is a well-publicized shortage of cybersecurity talent, it largely applies to senior roles or certain specialties. Employers often expect fully trained candidates, leaving newcomers without real opportunities. National efforts like the DoD Cyber Workforce Strategy (2023-2027) have expanded the talent pipeline but hiring practices haven’t kept pace resulting in a saturated entry-level market.

Cybersecurity may have a high barrier to entry for beginners, but with the right strategy—combining targeted certifications and practical experience—you can successfully advance your career or accelerate a transition.

CompTIA Security+ is a popular entry-level certification that validates core cybersecurity skills. It’s vendor-neutral and covers fundamental topics like network security, threats and vulnerabilities, incident response, and compliance. The Security+ certification is also globally recognized as a baseline credential for IT security jobs.

• Prerequisites

  No formal prerequisites. This is an ideal first cert – though CompTIA recommends having Network+ and ~2 years of IT experience with a security focus.

• Certification costs

  $USD 404 exam voucher (as of March 2025)​. The exam (SY0-701) has up to 90 multiple-choice and performance-based questions and requires a 750 score to pass on a scale of 100-900.

• Job roles

  Security Administrator, Junior Security Analyst, IT Support Security Specialist, Systems Administrator (with security duties). It’s a common requirement for DoD IAT Level II jobs as well.

• Average salary (U.S.)

  Around $80,000 for professionals with Security+ (Security+ holders in Asia-Pacific average ~$82.9k​, and U.S. salaries grow with experience). Many entry-level InfoSec analysts in the U.S. earn in the $70k–$90k range to start.

Security+ is approved by DoD 8140, which opens doors to numerous government and private sector roles. The certification builds a strong security foundation across network, cloud, and application security, and is one of the baseline requirements for those hiring for any digital security jobs involving the Department of Defense.

The CISSP is the most requested certification in cybersecurity job listings and widely recognized as the gold standard for experienced professionals. This advanced, vendor-neutral cyber security certification validates expertise across eight core security domains, including risk management, asset security, and security architecture. Earning the CISSP cert in 2025 signals to employers that you’re qualified to lead and manage enterprise-level security programs.

• Prerequisites

  At least five years of cumulative, full-time paid work experience in at least two of the CISSP domains (one year can be waived with a relevant degree or lower cert)​. You can take the exam without the required work experience, but you’ll become an Associate of ISC2 until you meet the requirement.

• Certification costs

  $USD 749 exam fee​ with an annual maintenance fee of $USD 125 for certification holders.

• Job roles

  Mid-to-senior level roles such as Security Analyst, Security Architect, IT Security Manager, Director of Information Security, and Chief Information Security Officer (CISO).

• Average salary (U.S.)

  $164,600​ – CISSP holders are among the highest-paid, often commanding six-figure salaries.

Training Camp CISSP Certification Boot Camp is tailored to help you master all eight CISSP domains and confidently pass the CISSP exam on your first attempt​.

Read more

• Blog – Top Career Advantages of Getting CISSP-Certified in 2025
• Blog – CISSP Adaptive Exam Tips and Tricks

The CISM certification is a globally respected credential for IT security management. Offered by ISACA, CISM certifies your ability to manage and govern an enterprise information security program. It focuses on four domains: Security Governance, Risk Management, Security Program Development/Management, and Incident Management.

• Prerequisites

  Five years of professional information security work experience, with at least three years in security management roles across three or more of the CISM domains​. (Experience must be within the past 10 years; substitutions like a CISSP or security degree can waive two years.)

• Certification costs

  $USD 575 for ISACA members or $USD 760 for non-members (exam fee)​. ISACA membership is ~$USD 135/year and can save on exam fees​.

• Job roles

  Information Security Manager, IT Security Director, Cybersecurity Manager, Security Consultant, and CISO.

• Average salary (U.S.)

  $155,900​. In ISACA’s survey, CISM consistently ranked among top-paying certs.

CISM is recognized as the preferred credential for IT managers, making it ideal for leadership roles where you design and oversee security strategies. The cert includes a focus on AI and blockchain to ensure your skillset meets new security threats and industry requirements.

Read more

• Blog – CISM vs CISSP: Which Security Certification is Best for You in 2025

Jointly developed by ISC2 and the Cloud Security Alliance, CCSP certifies your skills in securing cloud environments. It covers six domains including cloud architecture, cloud data security, platform security, application security, cloud operations, and compliance.

As organizations accelerate cloud adoption in 2025, CCSP has emerged as one of the top cyber security certifications for professionals working with AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, or other cloud platforms.

• Prerequisites

  At least five years of cumulative work experience in information technology, of which three years must be in information security, and one year in one or more of the six domains of the ISC2 CCSP exam outline. Those without required experience can become an Associate of ISC2 after passing the exam.

• Certification costs

  $599 exam fee​. Annual maintenance fee is $100 for ISC2 members.

• Job roles

  Cloud Security Engineer, Cloud Architect, Cloud Security Consultant, Security Analyst – Cloud, and Security Architect (Cloud/Hybrid environments). Ideal for IT professionals securing SaaS, PaaS, IaaS services or working in cloud-heavy companies. The CCSP cert by ISC2 is also DoD 8140-approved.

• Average salary (U.S.)

  $159,500. CCSP holders are highly paid (well into six figures), as cloud security expertise is in great demand.

Training Camp CCSP Boot Camp provides the knowledge and skills needed to pass the CCSP exam and excel in your career as a cloud security professional.

The CEH certification, offered by EC-Council, is a globally recognized cyber security certification for penetration testers and ethical hackers. According to its 2023 Hall of Fame report, 92% of employers prefer CEH-certified candidates for ethical hacking jobs.

CEH verifies your ability to find security vulnerabilities and exploit them to help organizations strengthen their defenses. The exam covers a broad range of hacking techniques and tools (reconnaissance, scanning, exploitation, malware, etc.) and is continuously updated to include the latest threats.

• Prerequisites

  No formal prerequisites to sit for the exam, but EC-Council recommends candidates possess two years of work experience in IT security​. Many professionals attend the official CEH training boot camp to qualify for the exam if they lack the work experience.

• Certification costs

  ~$550 certification voucher (depending on the format) for students who have successfully completed the official training.

• Job roles

  Penetration Tester, Ethical Hacker, Security Engineer, Vulnerability Analyst, Red Team Member, and SOC Analyst. It’s recognized by DoD 8140 as an approved baseline cert for penetration testing roles.

• Average salary (U.S.)

  According to Skillsoft’s 2024 IT Skills & Salary report, CEH holders earned ~$145k on average.

Prepare for CEH knowledge and practical exams with Training Camp CEH Boot Camp – featuring expert training on ethical hacking methodologies, vulnerability assessment, and advanced attack vectors, plus an exam voucher and a free retake.

Unlike other certs on this list, ISO 27001 Lead Auditor is obtained by completing a training course and exam through an accredited provider (rather than a single vendor exam). The cert is aimed at professionals who want to conduct external or internal audits of an organization’s information security management system (ISMS) in compliance with ISO 19011 and ISO/IEC 17021-1 certification process.

• Prerequisites

  No strict prerequisites to take the training or exam, but prior knowledge of information security management and ISO 27001 frameworks is highly recommended​.

• Certification costs

  An ISO 27001 Lead Auditor five-day training course with the 3-hour exam can cost around $USD 3,195​.

• Job roles

  IT Auditor, Information Security Auditor, Compliance Manager, Risk Manager, and Security Consultant. Organizations pursuing ISO 27001 certification usually hire or contract Lead Auditors to help prepare for official audits and to conduct internal pre-audits.

• Average salary (U.S.)

  Salaries for ISO 27001 Lead Auditors can vary based on industry. Glassdoor data shows that Security Auditors earned an average salary in the $95k-$150k​ range, while senior auditors or those consulting independently earn six-figures.

Many who obtain this cert work for auditing firms or as consultants performing ISO 27001 compliance audits. It’s also useful for internal security managers who need to implement and maintain ISO 27001 in their organizations.

ISACA’s CISA has been a staple in the IT audit, assurance, and cybersecurity governance space. It certifies your expertise in auditing, controlling, and assuring information systems. If your career intersects with IT risk management, compliance, or audit, CISA is a powerful accreditation to have.

• Prerequisites

  Five years of professional experience in IS audit, control, or security​. You must accumulate the experience within 10 years before or five years after passing the exam.

• Certification costs

  $USD 575 in exam fees for ISACA members or $USD 760 for non-members​. ISACA membership can reduce exam costs and offer other benefits. There’s also a $50 application fee after you pass the exam to get certified.

• Job roles

  IT Auditor, Information Systems Auditor, Cybersecurity Auditor, Internal Auditor (IT focus), IT Compliance Manager, and IT Risk Consultant. CISA is often required for roles that involve reviewing and testing an organization’s security controls and compliance with regulations.

• Average salary (U.S.)

  $147,600. CISA is consistently listed among high-paying IT certs throughout the years.

CRISC is ISACA’s certification focused on enterprise IT risk management. It’s designed for professionals who identify and manage risks through appropriate information systems controls. The certification spans four domains: IT Risk Identification, IT Risk Assessment, Risk Response and Mitigation, and Risk Control, Monitoring and Reporting.

• Prerequisites

  At least three years of cumulative work experience in at least two of the CRISC domains (one of which must be either risk identification or assessment)​. There are no substitutions or waivers – you must have the full three years (within 10 years prior or five years after passing the exam)​.

• Certification costs

  $USD 575 for ISACA members or $USD 760 for non-members (exam fee)​. Similar to CISA, there is a $50 application fee after passing the exam.

• Job roles

  IT Risk Analyst, IT Risk Manager, Cyber Risk Consultant, Security Compliance Manager, and in some cases, roles like Security Director or CISO with a heavy emphasis on risk management. CRISC is ideal for those on the governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) career path.

• Average salary (U.S.)

  $158,500. According to ISACA, CRISC is among the top 10 highest-paying certs​ since over half of CRISC holders are IT directors, managers, or consultants.

CSSLP is an ISC2 certification aimed at software developers and application security professionals. It ensures you have the knowledge to integrate security best practices into every phase of the software development lifecycle (SDLC). The eight domains of CSSLP include areas like secure software design, implementation, testing, deployment, and supply chain security.

• Prerequisites

  Four years of full-time work experience in the SDLC (software development lifecycle) in at least one of the CSSLP domains​. A one-year waiver is available for those with a relevant four-year degree or another ISC2 certification (like CISSP). Without the experience, you can still pass the exam and become an Associate of ISC2, then earn the certification after gaining the required experience.

• Certification costs

  $USD 599 exam fee​ with annual maintenance fee of $USD 100 (or $USD 125 if you’re not already an ISC2 member through another cert).

• Job roles

  Software Developer/Engineer, Application Security Engineer, DevSecOps Engineer, Security Software Architect, Secure Code Auditor. This cert is great for anyone involved in designing or reviewing software with a security mindset – including QA testers, developers, and architects. The CSSLP cert by ISC2 is DoD 8140-approved.

• Average salary (U.S.)

  ~$111,200. According to ISC2 data, CSSLP-certified professionals earn about $111k on average. However, this can vary widely by role – e.g., a Senior Software Engineer might make in the $120k range, while an AppSec specialist could earn more.

CSSLP is one of the few certifications that target developers. It’s increasingly important as DevSecOps practices become mainstream. By ensuring code is secure from the start, organizations save costs on fixes and avoid vulnerabilities. If you’re in development, adding CSSLP to your credentials can set you apart as someone who can bridge the gap between development and security.

The CCISO certification is an advanced credential aimed at seasoned information security executives. CCISO validates not technical skills per se, but the leadership, governance, and strategy skills required of a CISO. The program covers five domains: Governance/Risk/Compliance; Security Risk Management/Controls; Security Program Management & Operations; Security Information Architecture; and Strategic Planning/Finance.

• Prerequisites

  At least five years of experience in EACH of at least three of the five CCISO domains​. EC-Council also offers an “Associate CCISO” path where you take official training and the exam, then earn full certification once you have the experience. Without official training, applicants need five years in all five domains​ (effectively 20-25 years), which is why most go through the training route.

• Certification costs

  The exam voucher typically costs around $USD 999​. EC-Council requires an application ($100) and approval before you can purchase the voucher​. If you take the official CCISO training (highly recommended unless you’re already a veteran CISO), the training + exam package can range from $2,500 to $5,000+​

• Job roles

  Chief Information Security Officer, of course – as well as Deputy CISO, Security Director, or consultant/VP roles overseeing security. CCISO is also an approved baseline certification under DoD 8140, providing opportunities for advancement in the U.S. military.

• Average salary (U.S.)

  ~$175,000 (for CISOs; can vary widely). Many large enterprises pay CISOs in the $250k+ range, plus bonuses​

The CCISO training can be invaluable even beyond the exam – offering mentorship and real-world scenarios from experienced CISOs. Consider it a crash course in how to run a security program like a business.

The Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate is part of the “Grow with Google” career certificates (available via Coursera). It’s an online cybersecurity certification aimed at beginners looking to land an entry-level cybersecurity job.

The program covers security fundamentals, networks, system administration, incident response, threat detection, and includes hands-on training with industry tools (like Splunk, Wireshark, Linux, etc.). Upon completion, students are prepared for roles such as cybersecurity analyst and are even given resources to prepare for CompTIA Security+.

• Prerequisites

  None. This certificate is designed for beginners. You don’t need prior IT or security experience – it covers basic IT concepts​.

• Certification costs

  $USD 49 per month on Coursera​, making it one of the more affordable cyber security certifications online. Learners can complete the course in six months with seven hours per week of study​. There’s a 7-day free trial and an offer of €37 per month to continue learning after your trial ends.

• Job roles

  Entry-level roles such as Cybersecurity Analyst, SOC Analyst (Tier 1), Security Operations Center Jr. Analyst, IT Support Specialist – Security, or Information Security Analyst (junior level). The content is aligned to what a junior analyst in a SOC would need.

• Average salary (U.S.)

  ~$115,000 median for Information Security Analysts​ (0-5 years of experience).

Many professionals use this Google cert to get a foot in the door – it even offers a dual credential pathway by prepping you for CompTIA Security+. Graduates of the program can get a discount voucher for Security+ and earn that cert as well​, which will greatly boost your employability for entry-level roles.

The Google Cloud Cybersecurity Professional Certificate is focused specifically on cloud security skills within Google Cloud Platform (GCP). This certificate is designed for those who want to start a career in cloud security, covering cloud architecture basics, Google Cloud security tools, identity and access management in cloud, network security in GCP, incident response in cloud, and even some Terraform/automation for cloud security.

• Prerequisites

  None required, but having fundamental IT knowledge or completing the Google Cybersecurity cert first could be helpful.

• Certification costs

  Same cost structure as Google certificates on Coursera. It’s a shorter program – two months at 10 hours per week is the suggested pace​.

• Job roles

  Cloud Security Analyst, Cloud Security Engineer (entry level), Cloud Security Specialist, or roles like Associate Cloud Engineer with a focus on security. It prepares you for entry-level cloud security positions, which requires understanding both security and cloud computing fundamentals.

• Average salary (U.S.)

  $135,000 – $145,000 for Cloud Security Engineer​.

This Google Cloud cert is one of the first entry-level certifications focused exclusively on cloud cybersecurity. It reflects a trend identified in the 2024 ISC2 Cybersecurity Workforce Study, where hiring managers state cloud computing security as the most desired skill due to ongoing talent shortage.

The Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Enterprise is a mid-to-advanced level certification for network engineers. While it’s not purely a “security” certification, it’s included here because network security is foundational to overall cybersecurity.

The CCNP Enterprise validates skills in designing, deploying, and troubleshooting enterprise networks (routing, switching, wireless, and some security). To earn CCNP Enterprise, you must pass two exams: a core enterprise networking exam (350-401 ENCOR) and one concentration exam of your choice (such as enterprise advanced routing, SD-WAN, wireless, or enterprise automation).

• Prerequisites

  No formal prerequisites. Learners often have three to five years of experience implementing enterprise network solutions.

• Certification costs

  $USD 700 total for the two exams. The core ENCOR exam costs $USD 400 and the concentration exam costs $USD 300​. Each exam is 120 minutes. Cisco sometimes offers package deals or vouchers.

• Job roles

  Network Engineer, Network Administrator, Network Security Engineer, Infrastructure Engineer, and Network Architect (associate level). Many CCNP Enterprise holders work on network teams managing routers, switches, and securing network infrastructure (VPNs, ACLs, etc.). With the rise of software-defined networking, CCNP skills are also useful for network automation roles.

• Average salary (U.S.)

  $141,000. The CCNP also sets you up nicely to pursue Cisco’s CCIE certifications in the future, which commands even higher salaries.

Offered by the International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP), the Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP) is the most sought-after global training and certification program for privacy and data protection.

CIPP comes in several geographic concentrations (CIPP/US for the United States, CIPP/E for Europe, CIPP/A for Asia, etc.) focusing on regional privacy laws and regulations (like GDPR in Europe or HIPAA/GLBA in the US). Earning a CIPP demonstrates that you understand privacy laws, how to apply them, and how to manage personal data responsibly.

• Prerequisites

  No formal prerequisites. Many IT security pros without legal training have achieved CIPP to broaden their skill set into privacy. IAPP does not mandate experience to sit for the exam.

• Certification costs

  $USD 550 exam fee. IAPP membership is not required to take the exam, but members get a discount on exam fees. Membership costs $USD 275 and includes the first year of certification maintenance. If not a member, you’ll pay a $USD 250 certification maintenance fee for two years coverage​.

• Job roles

  Data Privacy Officer (DPO), Privacy Analyst, Compliance Manager, Legal Counsel (Privacy), Security Analyst (with privacy focus), and IT Risk/Compliance Consultant. A security professional with a CIPP can work closely with legal teams or even move into roles like Privacy Engineer.

• Average salary (U.S.)

  $147,500. IAPP’s surveys often show privacy professionals (with CIPP/CIPM) earning high salaries.

If you’re pursuing CIPP, you can also consider CIPM (Certified Information Privacy Manager) or CIPT (Certified Information Privacy Technologist) down the road. CIPM focuses on operationalizing privacy programs, and CIPT is more technical. In fact, IAPP offers a discount for additional certs​.

Certified Data Privacy Solutions Engineer (CDPSE) is ISACA’s answer to the growing intersection of IT, security, and privacy. Launched in 2020, CDPSE is a technical privacy certification that validates your ability to implement privacy by design.

CDPSE covers three domains: Privacy Governance, Privacy Architecture, and Data Lifecycle (i.e., data handling and security practices that ensure privacy). The cert is designed for those who build and implement solutions that meet privacy requirements.

• Prerequisites

  Three or more years of experience in at least one of the CDPSE domains (governance, architecture, or data lifecycle)​. There are no waivers for education – you must have the full three years (which must be in the last 10 years).

• Certification costs

  $USD 575 for ISACA members or $USD 760 for non-members (exam fee), same as ISACA’s other certs that we’ve​ discussed above. Membership can save you money if you plan to maintain multiple ISACA certs.

• Job roles

  Privacy Engineer, Security Engineer (with privacy specialization), Solutions Architect, Data Scientist or Analyst (with privacy responsibilities), and Product Manager.

• Average salary (U.S.)

  $146,500 ​

CDPSE fills a unique niche as it’s one of the only certifications that tests both knowledge of privacy laws and the technical implementation of controls to enforce those principles. If you already have a strong security background (like CISSP or CISM) and you’re working with data that has regulatory oversight, CDPSE can complement your profile nicely.

2025 is a year where cloud security, data privacy, and risk management skills are in especially high demand. The best cyber security certifications listed above are highly valued by employers – helping you advance your career, demonstrate your expertise, and boost your earning potential.

Certifications like CCSP, CDPSE, and CISM are gaining prominence as businesses tackle complex cloud deployments and regulatory requirements. Foundational certs like Security+ and CISSP remain relevant, forming the baseline requirement in job descriptions.

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